Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) | American Lung Association

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Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

Making notes before your visit, as well as taking along a trusted family member or friend, can help you through the first appointment with your doctor.

  • What is the most likely explanation for how I feel and my symptoms?
  • Other than obstructive sleep apnea, are there other explanations about the way I feel?
  • What is obstructive sleep apnea?
  • Why do I have obstructive sleep apnea?
  • Is it temporary or permanent?
  • What test do I need to do to confirm obstructive sleep apnea?
  • How do I prepare for this test?
  • What are my treatment options?
  • Which treatment is best for me?
  • Are all treatment options equally effective to treat my obstructive sleep apnea?
  • What is a CPAP machine?
  • What is an oral appliance?
  • What do I have to change in my life to improve my obstructive sleep apnea?
  • What are the complications and risks if obstructive sleep apnea is not treated?
  • How will treatment help me?

    This content was developed in partnership with the CHEST Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the American College of Chest Physicians.

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    Last updated April 4, 2018.

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